Sebastian Prandoni, MSW

Sebastian is a PhD student at the School of Social Policy and Practice. His research centers on economic security, specifically examining the viability and impact of social welfare distribution models—such as in-kind benefits, near-cash transfers, and cash transfers—on the quality of life outcomes for low-income individuals and families.

As a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) – North Carolina Chapter, Sebastian volunteered as an ambassador for the association and the profession, serving on the Board of Directors. He worked with the NASW Student Engagement team and on the chapter’s Legislative Committee. As a behavioral and mental health panelist, he had the opportunity to testify before Congress on the ongoing mental health crisis in the United States, focusing on innovative policy solutions and strategies to support youth and families from low-income and rural communities.

Sebastian holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and international business from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a master’s degree from the Joint Master of Social Work (JMSW) program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. As a non-traditional student, he worked as an international sales agent in the furniture industry, primarily collaborating with corporations in Argentina, Brazil, China, Italy, the United States, and Uruguay before enrolling in the JMSW program. Sebastian is also a Meisner-trained actor, having completed a 2-year conservatory at T.K. Studios in Brooklyn, NY. He has worked on commercial, TV, and film productions across the country.